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Overstep - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

To overstep means to go beyond accepted limits or boundaries, often in behavior or authority. It implies exceeding what is considered proper or allowed, such as overstepping one’s role.

overstep

/ˈoʊvɚˌstɛp/ /ˈəʊvəˌstɛp/

Definition:

Exceed limits or boundaries, often in a disrespectful or unauthorized manner.

Synonyms:

transgress, exceed, violate, encroach

Part of Speech:

verb

Antonyms:

respect, observe

Common Collocations:

overstep boundaries, overstep authority, overstep the mark

Derivatives:

overstepping, overstepped

Usage Tips:

Use "overstep" when someone goes beyond accepted limits, especially in authority or social norms.

Common Phrases:

overstep the mark, overstep one's bounds, overstep the line

Etymology:

Derived from Old English "ofor" (over) + "steppan" (to step), meaning to step beyond limits.

Examples:

  • 1. She didn't want to overstep her role as a junior employee.
  • 2. Parents should avoid overstepping their children's privacy boundaries.
  • 3. The manager warned him not to overstep his authority again.
  • 4. Politicians often overstep ethical lines in their campaigns.

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